Entering the year 2000, there was a palpable sense that music was on the cusp of something new, a sonic shift befitting the dawn of a new millennium. While the familiar faces of the late ’90s music scene remained dominant, the biggest artists of 1999 – from boy bands and girl groups to rap and rock chart-toppers – demonstrated a renewed energy, pushing their creative boundaries to define the sound of the 21st century.
This era of musical evolution was significantly shaped by visionary super-producers. Timbaland and Rodney “Darkchild” Jerkins elevated the drama and intensity of R&B, crafting soundscapes that felt both futuristic and operatic. The Neptunes and Swizz Beatz brought innovative sounds and textures to hip-hop, propelling it towards mainstream dominance. And Max Martin, the architect of TRL pop, refined his signature sound, ensuring that pop music and its stars remained relevant and cutting-edge in the new millennium.
The 100 Greatest Songs of 2000
Billboard’s list of 100 greatest songs of 2000, showcasing diverse genres and artists.
However, 2000 was not solely about established artists reinventing themselves. Hip-hop witnessed the rise of a groundbreaking voice from the Midwest, shifting the genre’s geographical focus. R&B underwent a parallel modernization, embracing both pop sensibilities and neo-soul roots, with the latter experiencing a year of significant commercial and critical acclaim. Furthermore, several iconic figures from the ’80s made impactful comebacks with radically transformed sounds, proving their enduring relevance across decades.
To commemorate the 20th anniversary of *NSYNC’s seminal album No Strings Attached, a defining pop release of 2000 known for its groundbreaking production and record-breaking sales, and as many sought escapism in 2020, Billboard celebrated the year 2000 with a week-long retrospective. This celebration began with a curated list of 100 favorite songs from this historically rich year, followed by a series of essays, interviews, lists, and other reflections on the dawn of the new millennium.
Eligibility for this list included songs released as singles in 2000, those that debuted on the Billboard charts in 2000, or reached No. 1 in 2000. Songs that gained popularity or charted in 2001 were considered for the following year’s list, meaning tracks like “Ms. Jackson,” “It Wasn’t Me,” “Yellow,” “One Step Closer,” and “One More Time” were recognized in the 2001 rankings.
Explore the complete list of 100 standout Songs From 2000 below, discover a Spotify playlist featuring all tracks at the end, and revisit Billboard.com for in-depth stories behind the most captivating songs and albums of the year 2000. Let’s embark on a nostalgic journey back to the start of the millennium with these 100 incredible tracks.
Top 100 Songs of the Year 2000: A Deep Dive into the Sounds of the New Millennium
This section provides a detailed look at each song in the top 100 list, highlighting their significance and impact in the music landscape of 2000.
100-91: Chart-Toppers and Genre Benders
100. Zombie Nation, “Kernkraft 400” (Sport Chant Stadium Remix)
This high-energy track bridged the gap between video game music and sports anthems, becoming a defining sound of stadium events at the turn of the millennium. Its infectious energy and chant-like vocals made it a popular choice for sporting events and dance floors alike.
99. P!nk, “There You Go”
P!nk’s debut single showcased her as a promising R&B artist, defying bubblegum pop stereotypes with its swagger and soulful vocals. “There You Go” established P!nk as a unique voice, setting the stage for her evolution into a pop-rock icon.
98. O-Town, “Liquid Dreams”
A quintessential 2000 boy band hit, “Liquid Dreams” name-dropped pop culture icons of the time, from Destiny’s Child to Madonna. Its catchy melody and upbeat tempo captured the zeitgeist of the year 2000 pop music scene.
97. The White Stripes, “Hello Operator”
In a year dominated by nu-metal, The White Stripes offered a refreshing blast from the past with their raw garage rock sound. “Hello Operator” exemplified their signature dirty blues rock style, proving the enduring appeal of classic rock in the new millennium.
96. Toby Keith, “How Do You Like Me Now?!”
Toby Keith’s country hit was a honky-tonk anthem of self-assurance and success after overcoming past rejections. Its catchy chorus and relatable theme of proving doubters wrong resonated with a wide audience.
95. Mandy Moore, “I Wanna Be With You”
Mandy Moore’s teen ballad captured the essence of teenage longing with its tender vocals and heartfelt lyrics. “I Wanna Be With You” became her biggest Hot 100 hit, showcasing her potential as a maturing artist.
94. Black Rob, “Whoa!”
Black Rob’s “Whoa!” was a hardcore New York hip-hop banger that solidified his place in the Bad Boy Records lineup. Its gritty sound and confident lyrics exemplified the East Coast hip-hop scene of 2000.
93. The Dandy Warhols, “Bohemian Like You”
This alternative rock track ironically critiqued hipster culture while becoming a commercial success. “Bohemian Like You” captured the pseudo-counter-cultural trends of the late ’90s and early 2000s.
92. Miss Kittin & The Hacker, “Frank Sinatra”
An electroclash gem with a blasé attitude, “Frank Sinatra” recounted scandalous tales over icy synth beats. Its dark humor and unique sound contributed to its cult classic status in the electronic music scene.
91. Hanson, “This Time Around”
Hanson’s attempt to mature their sound with “This Time Around” showcased their growth as pop-rock songwriters. While not as commercially explosive as “MMMBop,” it highlighted their evolution beyond teen pop sensations.
90-81: Genre Crossovers and Evolving Sounds
90. PJ Harvey, “Good Fortune”
“Good Fortune” marked a stylistic shift for PJ Harvey, embracing a more melodic and upbeat sound. This track showcased her versatility and willingness to explore new sonic territories while maintaining her unique artistic identity.
89. 2Gether, “The Hardest Part About Breaking Up (Is Getting Back Your Stuff)”
This parody boy band song perfectly captured the TRL era with its humorous take on breakup clichés. “Hardest Part About Breaking Up” cleverly satirized and celebrated boy band pop culture.
88. Delerium feat. Sarah McLachlan, “Silence”
“Silence” fused Sarah McLachlan’s ethereal vocals with electronic and new-age elements, creating a dreamy and atmospheric track. Its haunting beauty and club remixes solidified its enduring appeal in electronic music.
87. Hoku, “Another Dumb Blonde”
Hoku’s debut single was a feisty and empowering pop anthem that challenged stereotypes. “Another Dumb Blonde” resonated with teen audiences with its message of self-respect and independence.
86. Jagged Edge, “Let’s Get Married”
“Let’s Get Married” became a timeless R&B wedding anthem with its smooth harmonies and heartfelt lyrics about commitment. Its romantic appeal and popular remix featuring Run-D.M.C. contributed to its lasting popularity.
85. Ricky Martin, “She Bangs”
Ricky Martin’s “She Bangs” blended salsa rhythms with rock guitar and pop beats for a universally appealing dance track. Its energetic fusion of genres and Martin’s charisma made it an international hit.
84. Beenie Man feat. Mya, “Girls Dem Sugar”
This Neptunes-produced track fused dancehall with glossy hip-hop and R&B, showcasing Beenie Man’s sonic evolution. “Girls Dem Sugar” highlighted the growing trend of genre-blending in popular music.
83. Carlos Vives, “Fruta Fresca”
Carlos Vives revolutionized Latin music with “Fruta Fresca,” blending vallenato with pop sensibilities. This track showcased the evolution of Latin music into the mainstream while preserving its cultural roots.
82. Limp Bizkit, “Break Stuff”
“Break Stuff” became a nu-metal anthem of rage and frustration, designed for mosh pits and cathartic release. Its raw energy and angsty lyrics captured the nu-metal zeitgeist of 2000.
81. Carl Thomas, “I Wish”
Carl Thomas’ “I Wish” was an unusually poignant R&B ballad about unrequited love within a complicated relationship. Its soulful vocals and heartfelt lyrics resonated with listeners seeking deeper emotional narratives in R&B.
80-71: Girl Groups, Global Sounds, and Rock Evolution
80. 3LW, “No More (Baby I’ma Do Right)”
3LW’s debut single was a catchy and sassy kiss-off anthem from a young girl group. “No More” showcased the rising popularity of teen girl groups in the pop and R&B landscape of 2000.
79. Sting feat. Cheb Mami, “Desert Rose”
“Desert Rose” was a global fusion track that combined Sting’s pop sensibilities with Cheb Mami’s Algerian rai vocals. Its exotic sound and cross-cultural collaboration became a unique hit of the year.
78. Kylie Minogue, “Spinning Around”
Kylie Minogue’s “Spinning Around” marked her successful return to classic disco-inspired Europop. This track revitalized her career and showcased the enduring appeal of danceable pop melodies.
77. Samantha Mumba, “Gotta Tell You”
Samantha Mumba’s debut single was a confident and soulful bubblegum pop banger. “Gotta Tell You” highlighted her potential as a pop star with its catchy chorus and charismatic performance.
76. The Baha Men, “Who Let the Dogs Out?”
This novelty track became an inescapable stadium anthem with its simple, repetitive, and infectious chorus. “Who Let the Dogs Out?” despite its simplicity, achieved massive global popularity and Grammy recognition.
75. Erykah Badu, “Bag Lady”
Erykah Badu’s soulful “Bag Lady” offered timeless wisdom about letting go of emotional baggage. Its soothing rhythm and insightful lyrics resonated with audiences seeking introspective R&B.
74. Air, “Playground Love”
“Playground Love” from Air evoked a ’70s dream-pop vibe, becoming synonymous with Sofia Coppola’s The Virgin Suicides. Its romantic and nostalgic atmosphere made it a standout track.
73. Janet Jackson, “Doesn’t Really Matter”
Janet Jackson’s “Doesn’t Really Matter” was a futuristic R&B dance track promoting inner beauty. Its innovative music video and positive message made it a chart-topping hit.
72. Deftones, “Change (In the House of Flies)”
Deftones’ “Change” was a nu-metal track with a dark, mysterious, and seductive edge. Its unsettling beauty and complex soundscapes stood out in the nu-metal scene.
71. Savage Garden, “I Knew I Loved You”
Savage Garden’s sentimental ballad “I Knew I Loved You” became a global karaoke favorite, especially in Southeast Asia. Its universal theme of love and longing made it their second No. 1 hit.
70-61: Power Ballads, Pop-Punk, and International Flavors
70. Fuel, “Hemorrhage (In My Hands)”
Fuel’s “Hemorrhage” was a crossover post-grunge ballad with a powerful singalong chorus. Its emotional depth and relatable themes of loss resonated with rock and pop audiences.
69. Incubus, “Stellar”
Incubus’ “Stellar” blended nu-metal with surrealist and spacey elements, showcasing their unique sound. Its serpentine melody and genre-bending approach set them apart in the rock landscape.
68. Marc Anthony, “You Sang to Me”
Marc Anthony’s “You Sang to Me” was a breathtaking Latin pop ballad filled with heart-wrenching emotion. Its passionate delivery and romantic intensity made it a massive hit.
67. Toni Braxton, “He Wasn’t Man Enough”
Toni Braxton’s “He Wasn’t Man Enough” was an upbeat R&B anthem of female empowerment and protectiveness. Its Y2K-futuristic music video and confident message made it a standout track.
66. David Gray, “Babylon”
David Gray’s “Babylon” was a melancholic folk-pop song with a warm and introspective vibe. Its heartfelt lyrics and harmonious melodies became his signature track.
65. BBMak, “Back Here”
BBMak’s “Back Here” was a soft and gorgeous pop track with delicate harmonies and a charming bridge. Its gentle beauty and boy band appeal made it a lasting adult contemporary radio staple.
64. Madonna, “Don’t Tell Me”
Madonna’s “Don’t Tell Me” was a folktronica experiment blending twangy defiance with electronic elements. Its unique sound and Madonna’s innovative spirit made it a compelling follow-up single.
63. Peaches, “F–k the Pain Away”
Peaches’ “F–k the Pain Away” was a proudly explicit and minimalistic electro-punk track that became a proto-meme. Its frankness and minimalist sound made it a cult classic.
62. SR-71, “Right Now”
SR-71’s “Right Now” embodied the classic pop-punk sound that exploded in the early 2000s. Its catchy riff and nostalgic appeal made it a pop-punk anthem of the era.
61. Aaron Carter, “Aaron’s Party (Come Get It)”
Aaron Carter’s “Aaron’s Party” was a funky pop-rap track that captured the innocence and fun of childhood parties. Its youthful energy and catchy tune made it a hit with younger audiences.
60-51: Chart Dominance and Genre Defining Tracks
60. Enrique Iglesias, “Be With You”
Enrique Iglesias’ “Be With You” was a bilingual pop hit that solidified his mainstream American success. Its heartfelt chorus and romantic appeal made it a chart-topping love song.
59. At the Drive-In, “One Armed Scissor”
At the Drive-In’s “One Armed Scissor” was a dissonant and energetic post-hardcore track. Its jarring sound and intense performance made it a defining song for the band and the genre.
58. No Doubt, “Simple Kind of Life”
No Doubt’s “Simple Kind of Life” revealed Gwen Stefani’s introspection about fame and personal desires. Its vulnerability and honesty contrasted with their earlier confident anthems.
57. Ja Rule feat. Lil Mo & Vita, “Put It on Me”
Ja Rule’s “Put It on Me” remix, featuring Lil Mo and Vita, became a ride-or-die R&B/hip-hop anthem. Lil Mo’s vocals elevated the track and solidified Ja Rule’s hitmaker status.
56. Mya, “Case of the Ex (Whatcha Gonna Do)”
Mya’s “Case of the Ex” was a sharp-tongued and catchy R&B track about relationship frustrations. Its relatable lyrics and assertive tone resonated strongly with female audiences.
55. Common, “The Light”
Common’s “The Light” was a conscious hip-hop love song inspired by Erykah Badu. Its chivalrous rhymes and soulful production exemplified the neo-soul movement in hip-hop.
54. SoulDecision feat. Thrust, “Faded”
SoulDecision’s “Faded” was a disco-pop hit that snuck into the boy band dominated charts. Its funky bassline and cheeky lyrics made it a memorable pop gem.
53. Creed, “With Arms Wide Open”
Creed’s “With Arms Wide Open” perfected the post-grunge power ballad formula. Its passionate delivery and themes of fatherhood resonated deeply with audiences.
52. Dream, “He Loves U Not”
Dream’s “He Loves U Not” was a sassy pop R&B track from P. Diddy’s Bad Boy Records girl group. Its confident attitude and catchy hook made it a hit.
51. Green Day, “Minority”
Green Day’s “Minority” was a rebellious and rollicking punk-pop anthem with harmonica and accordion accents. Its call for individuality and political undertones made it a memorable hit.
50-41: Unconventional Hits and Genre Blends
50. Bloodhound Gang, “The Bad Touch”
Bloodhound Gang’s “The Bad Touch” was a strange, explicit, and incredibly catchy novelty hit. Its blend of spoken-word, NSFW themes, and funk-club production made it unforgettable.
49. Son by Four, “A Puro Dolor”
Son By Four’s “A Puro Dolor” was a classic Latin pop ballad about heartbreak and unconditional love. Its emotional depth and multiple versions made it a timeless gem.
48. Third Eye Blind, “Never Let You Go”
Third Eye Blind’s “Never Let You Go” was a pop-rock anthem with a catchy riff and angsty lyrics about a doomed relationship. Its enduring popularity solidified its place in pop-rock history.
47. Lonestar, “Amazed”
Lonestar’s “Amazed” became one of modern country’s greatest love songs, widely used at weddings. Its heartfelt lyrics and powerful balladry resonated with listeners seeking romantic anthems.
46. Red Hot Chili Peppers, “Otherside”
Red Hot Chili Peppers’ “Otherside” showcased their harmonies and melodic basslines in a song about addiction and loss. Its beauty and gravity made it a standout track.
45. Vitamin C, “Graduation (Friends Forever)”
Vitamin C’s “Graduation” became the quintessential graduation anthem of the 2000s, interpolating Pachelbel’s Canon in D. Its bittersweet nostalgia and pop twist resonated with graduating students.
44. Radiohead, “Optimistic”
Radiohead’s “Optimistic” was a dystopian anti-capitalist anthem from Kid A, trading positivity for unnerving sarcasm. Its unique sound and lyrical depth made it a standout alternative hit.
43. LeAnn Rimes, “Can’t Fight the Moonlight”
LeAnn Rimes’ “Can’t Fight the Moonlight” was a pop-country theme song from Coyote Ugly with a sing-along chorus. Her versatile vocals and Diane Warren’s songwriting made it a hit.
42. The Avalanches, “Since I Left You”
The Avalanches’ “Since I Left You” was a lighthearted yet experimental electronic track, a psychedelic collage of pop samples. Its whimsical and innovative sound made it a unique entry.
41. Vertical Horizon, “Everything You Want”
Vertical Horizon’s “Everything You Want” was an understated alternative rock hit with emotionally affecting lyrics. Its relatable themes of unrequited love and strong chorus propelled it to the top of the charts.
40-31: Teen Pop, Hip-Hop Innovation, and Rock Anthems
40. Christina Aguilera, “Come on Over Baby (All I Want Is You)”
Christina Aguilera’s “Come On Over Baby” was an upbeat, Radio Disney-friendly pop bop solidifying her teen-pop stardom. Its danceable energy and catchy chorus made it a generation-defining hit.
39. U2, “Beautiful Day”
U2’s “Beautiful Day” became an inspirational anthem of hope and optimism. Its uplifting message and anthemic sound resonated globally, becoming a timeless hit.
38. Jay-Z, “I Just Wanna Love U (Give It 2 Me)”
Jay-Z’s “I Just Wanna Love U” with production by The Neptunes was a playful and infectious hip-hop track. It boosted both Jay-Z’s and The Neptunes’ careers, showcasing their innovative sound.
37. Bon Jovi, “It’s My Life”
Bon Jovi’s “It’s My Life” was a stadium rock comeback anthem referencing their classic “Livin’ on a Prayer.” Its self-referential lyrics and fist-pumping energy introduced Bon Jovi to a new generation.
36. Mystikal, “Shake Ya Ass”
Mystikal’s “Shake Ya Ass” was a raucous and irresistible Neptunes-produced hip-hop track. Its commanding choruses and energetic delivery made it his first crossover hit.
35. Santana feat. The Product G&B, “Maria Maria”
Santana’s “Maria Maria” fused Latin-infused guitar with hip-hop beats and R&B vocals, creating a Grammy-winning summer anthem. Its cross-genre appeal and seductive melody made it a timeless hit.
34. Nine Days, “Absolutely (Story of a Girl)”
Nine Days’ “Absolutely” was a power-pop song with an undeniable singalong chorus. Its catchy hook and relatable lyrics about a girl made it a Y2K pop-rock favorite.
33. Backstreet Boys, “Shape of My Heart”
Backstreet Boys’ “Shape of My Heart” was a heartfelt ballad with emotional depth, nearly matching the impact of “I Want It That Way.” Its sincere lyrics and powerful chorus made it a boy band classic.
32. Alice Deejay, “Better Off Alone”
Alice Deejay’s “Better Off Alone” was an electro-pop anthem with an iconic synth hook. Its infectious riff and cry-dance vibe made it a defining sound of turn-of-the-millennium electro-pop.
31. Britney Spears, “Lucky”
Britney Spears’ “Lucky” was a surprisingly self-aware pop song commenting on the downsides of fame. Its blend of heartbreak and campiness showcased a deeper side of Britney’s artistry.
30-21: Country Crossovers, Teen Angst, and R&B Innovations
30. Lee Ann Womack, “I Hope You Dance”
Lee Ann Womack’s “I Hope You Dance” was a touching country ballad with universal appeal, winning numerous awards. Its heartfelt message and gentle melody made it a timeless and moving song.
29. Wheatus, “Teenage Dirtbag”
Wheatus’ “Teenage Dirtbag” was a self-effacing pop-punk anthem for the underdogs. Its relatable lyrics and catchy chorus resonated with teens and became a Dawson’s Creek soundtrack staple.
28. Faith Hill, “The Way You Love Me”
Faith Hill’s “The Way You Love Me” was a country-pop-dance fusion track celebrating the euphoria of love. Its upbeat energy and colorful lyrics made it a standout country crossover hit.
27. 3 Doors Down, “Kryptonite”
3 Doors Down’s “Kryptonite” was a post-grunge anthem about superhuman strength and everyday struggles. Its omnipresence on rock and pop radio solidified its place in rock history.
26. Dr. Dre feat. Eminem, “Forgot About Dre”
Dr. Dre’s “Forgot About Dre” featuring Eminem was a Grammy-winning reminder of Dre’s lasting impact on hip-hop. Its powerful lyrics and iconic beat reaffirmed Dre’s status as an O.G.
25. Ludacris feat. Shawnna, “What’s Your Fantasy”
Ludacris’ “What’s Your Fantasy” featuring Shawnna was a breakthrough hit showcasing his lyrical creativity and salacious punchlines. Its playful and attention-grabbing style established Ludacris as a major rap star.
24. Destiny’s Child, “Jumpin’ Jumpin’”
Destiny’s Child “Jumpin’ Jumpin'” was a club anthem and a girls’ night out soundtrack. Beyoncé’s co-production and sing-rap cadence laid groundwork for her solo career.
23. Moby, “Porcelain”
Moby’s “Porcelain” was an electronica masterpiece predicting the millennium sound. Its reversed strings, piano melody, and spiritual calls created an eye-opening genre-bending experience.
22. Blink-182, “Adam’s Song”
Blink-182’s “Adam’s Song” was a departure from their norm, directly addressing mental health and suicide. Its slower tempo and poignant lyrics resonated deeply, especially in retrospect.
21. Sisqo, “The Thong Song”
Sisqo’s “The Thong Song” was an unconventional R&B hit celebrating thongs with passion and humor. Its booty-shaking rhythm and cheesy lines made it a cultural phenomenon.
Top 20 Songs of 2000: Defining a New Era
These top 20 songs represent the pinnacle of musical achievement in 2000, showcasing the diversity, innovation, and cultural impact of the year’s music scene.
20. Eminem, “The Real Slim Shady”
Eminem’s “The Real Slim Shady” was a manic and masterful lead single from The Marshall Mathers LP, targeting pop culture figures with cutting precision. Its VMAs-dominating video and controversial lyrics cemented Eminem’s place in pop culture.
19. Madonna, “Music”
Madonna’s “Music” was a cross-generational dancefloor anthem with electroclash influences. Its appeal to multiple generations and infectious beat solidified Madonna’s continued chart dominance.
18. *NSYNC, “It’s Gonna Be Me”
*NSYNC’s “It’s Gonna Be Me” was a Max Martin-penned pop classic about self-worth and perseverance. Its iconic “It’s gonna be May” meme and chart-topping success made it an enduring pop anthem.
17. Papa Roach, “Last Resort”
Papa Roach’s “Last Resort” was a pummeling pop-metal track about anguish and suicide. Its raw emotion and cathartic energy made it a defining single of the nu-metal era.
16. Christina Aguilera, “What a Girl Wants”
Christina Aguilera’s “What a Girl Wants” was an R&B-tinged pop single expressing gratitude for a patient and empathetic boyfriend. Its smooth vocals and catchy melody made it her second consecutive chart-topper.
15. Dixie Chicks, “Goodbye Earl”
Dixie Chicks’ “Goodbye Earl” was a banjo-tinged country track narrating a tale of abuse and vengeance with dark humor. Its bold lyrics and fiery delivery made it their most audacious song to date.
14. Aaliyah, “Try Again”
Aaliyah’s “Try Again” was a slinky, Timbaland-produced R&B jam from the Romeo Must Die soundtrack. Its innovative production and Aaliyah’s smooth vocals made it her first Hot 100 No. 1.
13. Red Hot Chili Peppers, “Californication”
Red Hot Chili Peppers’ “Californication” was a meditation on Hollywood’s dark side and one of their biggest hits. Its ominous lyrics, memorable guitar strums, and iconic video contributed to its lasting appeal.
12. Dr. Dre feat. Snoop Dogg, “The Next Episode”
Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg’s “The Next Episode” was a sequel to “Nuthin’ but a ‘G’ Thang” with a slick West Coast sound. Its iconic horns and timeless vibe made it a hip-hop classic.
11. Jay-Z feat. UGK, “Big Pimpin’”
Jay-Z’s “Big Pimpin'” featuring UGK was a braggadocious anthem encapsulating his playboy era. Timbaland’s beat, Bun B’s hook, and Pimp C’s verse made it an MTV Jam of the Week for all time.
10. Nelly, “Hot (S***) Country Grammar”
Nelly’s “Hot in Herre” was a celebratory Midwest hip-hop anthem marking his breakthrough. Its infectious beat, sing-along chorus, and regional pride made it the song of the summer for many.
9. Macy Gray, “I Try”
Macy Gray’s “I Try” was a raspy-voiced soul anthem about heartbreak and emotional acceptance. Its cathartic chorus and tear-jerking music video made it a breakup staple.
8. DMX, “Party Up (Up in Here)”
DMX’s “Party Up (Up in Here)” was a raw and energetic ode to going wild, setting the tone for post-Y2K America. Swizz Beatz’s production and DMX’s intense delivery made it a truly singular track.
7. Jennifer Lopez, “Love Don’t Cost a Thing”
Jennifer Lopez’s “Love Don’t Cost a Thing” was a breakup anthem emphasizing the importance of genuine love over material wealth. Its catchy beat and empowering message made it an instant classic.
6. D’Angelo, “Untitled (How Does It Feel)”
D’Angelo’s “Untitled (How Does It Feel)” was a game-changing R&B track with a sensual and innovative sound. Its video and groundbreaking approach to lovemaking music solidified D’Angelo’s status as an R&B innovator.
5. OutKast, “B.O.B. (Bombs Over Baghdad)”
OutKast’s “B.O.B.” was a manic and influential hip-hop track defying genre conventions. Its gospel-glam rock fusion, tempo escalations, and choir chorus made it a unique masterpiece.
4. Eminem feat. Dido, “Stan”
Eminem’s “Stan” featuring Dido was a groundbreaking rap ballad conveying empathy for a troubled fan. Its haunting rework of Dido’s “Thank You” and vivid storytelling made it a deeply impactful song.
3. Britney Spears, “Oops!…I Did It Again”
Britney Spears’ “Oops!…I Did It Again” was a pop smash with a red latex catsuit and out-of-this-world video. Its catchy chorus and playful tone solidified Britney’s pop icon status.
2. *NSYNC, “Bye Bye Bye”
*NSYNC’s “Bye Bye Bye” was a super-powered pop smash marking a new era for the boy band. Its iconic chorus, triple-hop dance, and record-setting album sales made it a defining moment in pop history.
1. Destiny’s Child, “Say My Name”
Destiny’s Child “Say My Name” topped the list as the number one song from 2000. This track redefined R&B with its focus on relationship paranoia and female empowerment. Rodney Jerkins’ 808-heavy production, Beyoncé’s innovative flow, and the song’s universal relatability made it a timeless anthem and a deserving No. 1 song of the year 2000. Its impact continues to resonate, solidifying its place as a cultural touchstone.
Conclusion: The Enduring Legacy of 2000’s Music
The songs of 2000 not only captured the spirit of a new millennium but also laid the foundation for the music of the 21st century. From pop and R&B innovations to the resurgence of rock and the global fusion of sounds, the year 2000 was a pivotal moment in music history. These 100 songs represent the diverse and dynamic soundscape of that year, reminding us of the enduring power of music to reflect and shape our culture. Explore these tracks further and rediscover the magic of the year 2000 in music.
